Chris Ewokor

Mali's army says it killed about 40 militants and repelled a two-hour attack by al-Qaeda-linked JNIM on a military base in San. The attackers briefly entered the camp and reportedly used drones, heavy machine guns and armoured vehicles, while at least 10 soldiers were killed. The army disputes that it lost control of the base, saying troops retreated temporarily before reasserting control. The assault highlights the deteriorating security situation in Mali, where jihadist groups and separatist rebels have expanded operations beyond the north despite military campaigns and the government's shift from French support to cooperation with Russia.

West African leaders have formally endorsed the Nigeria‑Morocco Atlantic Gas Pipeline, a $25bn project intended to transport Nigerian gas along a 6,000km route to Morocco and onward to Europe. The agreement establishes the legal and governance framework after a decade of negotiations, marking a major step before financing and construction begin. Experts highlight the project’s potential to strengthen regional industry, energy security and Africa’s global influence, despite challenges including financing, security along the route and competition from alternative export options. Regional institutions are backing the initiative as feasibility and engineering studies are complete, though European demand shifts and political stability remain key uncertainties.